Morocco suspends all incoming flights over new Covid-19 variant

Morocco said on Sunday it would suspend all flights coming to the North African country from around the world for two weeks due to the new Covid-19 variant Omicron.

The temporary ban will take effect on Monday for two weeks, Morocco’s state news agency MAP reported, citing a ministerial health committee.

The move was taken due to the “quick outbreak” of the Omicron strain especially in Europe and Africa, the panel said.

“The situation will be regularly assessed to modify the necessary measures if the need arises,” it added.

The Omicron strain has been classified as a "variant of concern" by the World Health Organization (WHO) amid fears that it is more transmissible, although much remains unclear.